A significant rise in fire incidents related to camping has prompted urgent warnings from local authorities in Queensland. Over the past year, firefighters responded to more than 200 fires in camping and picnic areas throughout the state, according to the Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ). This alarming trend has spurred community leaders to call for increased awareness and responsibility among campers.
One such incident occurred earlier this month at a remote roadhouse south of Burketown, where owner Jil Wilson discovered a still-burning campfire on her property. While inspecting the source of smoke, she found remnants of a campfire left unattended by what she suspects were unauthorized campers. “There was still a burning log,” she stated. “With the grass so close by, it could have started a bushfire quite easily, especially with the winds we’re experiencing.”
Ms. Wilson lamented that instead of paying the $15 camping fee for an unpowered site that includes a fire pit, the campers likely chose to set up their fire illegally on her property. “I understand that people travel unprepared, but leaving a burning campfire behind is just not fair,” she emphasized.
Fire Safety Calls from Authorities
The RFSQ’s fire mitigation manager, Chris Wegger, echoed Ms. Wilson’s concerns, urging travelers to prioritize safety. “Our message to the travelling community is please consider your safety and the safety of others before lighting a campfire,” he said. He recommended that campers use designated areas with established fire rings or pits to minimize risks.
Wegger highlighted the importance of reporting fires promptly, noting that mobile reception issues often delay responses. “The time that a fire does get reported can lead to a delayed response,” he explained. He also stressed the necessity of completely extinguishing campfires with water, stating that smothering them with dirt or sand is insufficient. “Coals can remain hot under sand and could pose a risk to other travellers,” he added.
As the tourist season approaches, many visitors are expected to flock to the Gregory River in the Burke Shire, making fire safety even more critical.
Community Response and Future Prevention
Burke Shire Mayor Ernie Camp acknowledged the challenges posed by unauthorized camping. The council manages several free camping areas but encourages visitors to utilize paid facilities offered by local businesses. In light of the recent incidents, Camp plans to address the issue of unauthorized camping at the upcoming council meeting, considering increased signage and enhanced fire safety education in tourist publications.
“Planning ahead is essential,” Camp advised. He encouraged travelers to avoid emergency roadside camping by knowing their limits and travel capabilities. Both he and Ms. Wilson noted that while most campers act responsibly, occasional negligence poses risks for everyone.
Ms. Wilson, who previously raised her Tirranna Roadhouse on stilts to avoid flood damage, is determined to prevent another disaster. “Anyone that’s been in the area lately knows how incredibly dry it is,” she said. “The wind is just howling, so everything is dried to a crisp.”
With heightened awareness and community cooperation, local authorities hope to mitigate fire risks and ensure a safe environment for both residents and travelers in Queensland.
